The Pembroke Regional Hospital Auxiliary has successfully fulfilled its $500,000 fundraising pledge in support of the hospital’s orthopedics program and upgrades to the inpatient surgical unit. The announcement was made at the Auxiliary’s Spring Tea and Fashion Show on April 26 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church Hall.
Auxiliary President Diana Gagne acknowledged that while the fundraising effort took longer than anticipated due to a pause in activities during the pandemic, the commitment and dedication of the volunteers never wavered.
“From the beginning, our volunteers recognized the importance of this project,” Gagne said. “Not only are we supporting an exceptional orthopedics program close to home, but our contributions will also enhance the inpatient experience for surgical patients with the completion of upgrades.”
The funds, raised over the past seven years, came from various sources including $210,100 from Delta Bingo & Gaming Pembroke, $19,000 from Nevada ticket sales, and $270,900 from The Sunshine Gift Shop, The Mural Café, ATM machines, a TV rental program, and annual events such as the recent tea and fashion show.
The PRH Auxiliary consists of 120 volunteers who not only raise funds for the hospital but also provide essential services to patients, visitors, and staff. Pembroke Regional Hospital President and CEO Sabine Mersmann expressed gratitude for the Auxiliary’s ongoing support, noting that their dedication has been integral to enhancing local healthcare services.
“For over six decades, the Auxiliary has played a key role in supporting local health services and covering costs not provided by the province,” Mersmann said. “Thanks to their commitment and the support of the community, our hospital continues to meet and exceed the needs of those we serve.”
The hospital’s Surgical unit had previously not been upgraded, but recent improvements include a modern Surgical Day Care space. The remaining inpatient area will welcome patients into a renovated space this fall, with opportunities for the public to view the updates when the time comes.
(Written by: Emma Butler)